BRUSSELS — Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy have warned against a large-scale ground offensive by Israel in Lebanon, saying it could trigger a severe humanitarian crisis and further escalate the conflict in the region.
In a joint statement, the five countries stressed that such action must be avoided due to the risk of “devastating humanitarian consequences” and the potential for a prolonged conflict.
Lebanon was drawn into rising Middle East tensions on March 2 after Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, launched attacks against Israel. The group said the move was in retaliation for the killing of Ali Khamenei, who was reported to have died on the first day of the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Israel responded with military operations that have killed more than 880 people in Lebanon, according to authorities. Over one million residents have been displaced, while more than 130,000 are currently staying in evacuation centers.
Israel has also warned that Lebanon could face destruction on a scale similar to Gaza if the conflict continues.
The joint statement described the humanitarian situation in Lebanon as “deeply alarming,” particularly due to the widespread displacement of civilians.
The countries also expressed support for efforts by the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah, while calling for immediate de-escalation and the resumption of negotiations.
The signatories said they were “gravely concerned” about the escalating violence and urged both Israel and Lebanon to engage in dialogue toward a long-term political solution.
They also underscored the importance of diplomatic efforts and initiatives aimed at facilitating peace talks and preventing a broader regional war.
Edgardo Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
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